He was born to the late Robert and Sadie (Lambert) Decker on Oct. 29, 1925. He is a 1947 graduate of East Stroudsburg High. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later in the Army National Guard during the Korean War.

In 1948, he married Dolores L. Buck. Russell worked many jobs throughout his lifetime. He served as a police officer for 29 years and retired in 1981 as chief of police from the Borough of Stroudsburg Police Department. He was a member of the National Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 75 of Stroudsburg. He was a well-respected member of the community, receiving many awards. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and telling his grandchildren stories of his military and police life. He will be remembered in Casco as the man who rode around in the red electric wheelchair.

Russell was preceded in death by a sister, two brothers and a brother-in-law: Margaret (Harold) Treible, Robert Jr. Decker, Carl Decker and Wally Crane; one nephew, Charles (Chip) Decker; one grandchild, Teda Swagel; and twin great-grandsons, Shawn and Parker Wendricks.

Russell was a loving father, mentor and a true friend to those who knew him. He will be sadly missed by all. A special thank-you to the staff at Anna's House and Unity Hospice in New Franken for the gentle and caring manner in which Russell was treated during his last days with us.

Visitation was held at Wiesner & Massart Funeral Home in Casco on Sunday, Jan. 13. A funeral service and military service followed at the funeral home, with Pastor Doreen Jeffers officiating. Burial was Monday, Jan. 14, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Oconto Falls, Wis., with full military rites.

Online condolences may be shared at wiesnermassart.com.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. Memorials may be mailed to Scott and Terry Decker, 313 East Ave., Casco, WI 54205.